School of Transmission

Your vehicle’s automatic transmission is a remarkable piece of machinery. It may be complex to understand how it functions, but a little knowledge can go a long way toward preventing a breakdown

The most complex and intricate system in your car is its automatic transmission – understanding how it works can help save you time, hassle, and money. Comprised of a series of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical components, they are all controlled by your car’s engine control unit, aka the powertrain control module.

A short drive to a nearby store means your transmission will likely shift about 25 to 30 times. Now imagine how many trips like that you make in a year and the impact they have on your transmission.

Shift Your Thinking about Your Automatic Transmission

Automatic transmission gear changes are monitored and executed by your vehicle’s internal computer. A torque converter uses the pressure and flow of transmission fluid to not only regulate the gear changes but also to allow the engine to continue running even when at a full stop. It also makes for a smoother shifting between gears.

When fluid levels in the transmission drop, so does the pressure that controls the shifting of gears. That can cause friction and less effective cooling, in turn leading to damage and potentially expensive repairs.

Recognizing Automatic Transmission Warning Signs

Preventing a breakdown from stranding you at the roadside requires insight into the warning signs your car will send if you’re on the cusp of experiencing a transmission-related problem. These warning signs include:

  • Grinding, rattling, or whining noises when changing gears or problems shifting gears
  • A delay in movement or your car jerks or shakes as it accelerates
  • Your transmission fluid is low, or you notice it pooling beneath the engine where you park
  • If you check your transmission fluid and see it’s not a reddish colour
  • You smell a burning odour while or after you drive

If you suspect your vehicle’s automatic transmission isn’t performing properly, or if you have questions about preventative transmission maintenance, contact us. Take advantage of our free 21-point multi-check inspection and avoid the cost and aggravation associated with a failing transmission.

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Mister Transmission Team

The Mister Transmission team consists of certified transmission specialists with decades of combined experience in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining automatic and manual transmissions.

With over 60 years of service across Canada, our experts provide trusted, accurate, and up-to-date automotive advice to help drivers make informed decisions about their vehicles.

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Customer Reviews
I took my vehicle to...
Mathieu Champagne
I took my vehicle to Mister Transmission to obtain a second opinion for a repair that Subaru City diagnosed (valve body replacement). Mister Transmission got me in for diagnosis as soon as I walked in the door. Their Shop Forman helped me out and took the vehicle for a road test and scanned for any codes and ended up diagnosing it with a totally different issue. He asked what Subaru City diagnosed and I told him CVT valve body replacement. He told me that wasn’t the issue and took the time to explain why the valve body replacement would not address the root cause of the issue. He explained that the actual repair required would be closer to $10k and was not worth the cost of the repair based on the mileage and age of my car. I really appreciate Mister Transmissions experience knowledge and honesty. It’s important to mention that the Subaru techs could not diagnose the issue in shop and had to send their findings to an online Subaru portal to obtain the diagnosis and I had to wait nearly 2 weeks for their diagnosis which was clearly incorrect and they charged me $190 to make an incorrect diagnosis. Mister Transmission, who are transmission specialists, were able to diagnose the issue in 10min with no cost to me. I recommend that everyone with transmission issues take their vehicles to Edmonton's Mister Transmission!
Date: August 15, 2026
Website: Google
It's hard to find this...
Goran “Megac”
It's hard to find this days, good shop,bud this guy's are very professional, Happy to know you guys All the best 👍👍👍
Date: August 15, 2026
Website: Google
Giorgio is a very honest...
Nowab Ali
Giorgio is a very honest machine. I went there with some issues with Transmission. He took care of my Ford Edge right a way with my full satisfaction.
Date: August 15, 2026
Website: Google
Excellent, prompt service from front...
L. J.
Excellent, prompt service from front office. Five stars from beginning to end. Would highly recommend!
Date: August 14, 2026
Website: Google
I had my transmission serviced,...
Max Power
I had my transmission serviced, and Ray was exceptionally informative, experienced, and professional. He patiently addressed all of my questions. This is truly the best place for any car service, and they also conduct safety inspections and certifications.
Date: August 14, 2026
Website: Google
The best service.
Diego Alberto
The best service.
Date: August 14, 2026
Website: Google
Not a lot of genuine...
Ast 1987
Not a lot of genuine people left in this world! These guys are a few good people left! Thank you Denise and Lee for the advice and the help with my black kia sorento 2021…. Best customer service where they actually care for you!!!
Date: August 14, 2026
Website: Google
Great service
Russell Smith
Great service
Date: August 14, 2026
Website: Google
I want to start off...
Blaze Tech
I want to start off by saying thank you to the Mr Transmission team I have a 2020 Chevy colorado, the transmition was shuddering which turned out to be the torque converter, after replacing the torque converter and new transmision fluid I am noticing NO MORE shuddering and smoother shifting👍
Date: August 14, 2026
Website: Google
Very nice staff. They work...
Paula Bastien
Very nice staff. They work with you. They tell you how long it will take and they stick to their schedule. Price was actually less than the estimate.
Date: August 14, 2026
Website: Google
Featured Services
Transmission Repair

The evolution of transmissions has made these machines and systems increasingly complex. When transmission repairs are required, determining the cause and cure for what ails can be tricky.

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Transmission Technology

At Mister Transmission we have access to leading-edge diagnostic equipment, enabling us to offer you the fastest and most accurate findings about what’s going on inside your vehicle’s transmission.

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Transmission Maintenance & Service

Just as you have other parts of your car serviced, your transmission needs maintenance to ensure a long life and avoid transmission problems.

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Mister Transmission Blogs
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How Transmission Repair Works And When Y...
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Transmission Problems You Should Never I...
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